New Project Takes Root for Beautification Project at Pontiac Park

PONTIAC, MI- (June 23, 2025)- Great things are on the horizon as City officials and the Pontiac community participate in the CN Railway/America in Bloom Awards Ceremony on Friday, June 27, from 3 to 4 p.m. The celebration marks the launch of a beautification project, which includes sprucing up the area and creating a colorful canvas around Art Dunlap Park.

“Park improvements are investments in both our neighborhoods and our residents,” said Mayor Tim Greimel.“Art Dunlap Park is the first in a series of parks that will receive upgrades over the coming months, and we are thrilled to continue to improve the quality of life for everyone in our community. We are very grateful to CN Railway and America in Bloom for their generosity in helping fund this beautification project.”

The groundbreaking marks a green beginning and a testament to growth at Art Dunlap Park. Art Dunlap Park is nearly a half-acre, and the City of Pontiac will add a vibrant tapestry filled with about 200 plants, including: Juniper, Michigan Holly, New Jersey Tea, Blue Lobelia, Butterfly Weed, Columbine, Shrubby Cinquefoil, and Nodding Wild Onion.

"We are excited for this opportunity to make improvements to one of the staple Parks in the City of Pontiac," said Pontiac Parks and Recreation Director Tarrance Price. “The start of this project not only increases the esthetic appeal to Art Dunlap Park but gives our residents a platform to exercise and enjoy sports and recreational activities in a beautified space. Special thanks to our sponsors from CN Railway and America in Bloom and my colleagues in the Pontiac Grants and Philanthropy division for this amazing opportunity."

The project was made possible through the combined contributions of $25,000 from CN Railway and America in Bloom, aimed at providing a sense of community pride and cohesiveness.

“This grant will provide beautiful landscaping in Art Dunlap Park, an important neighborhood park. This landscaping project will make the park an even more enjoyable asset for the people who live, work, and visit here,” said Laura Kunkle, America in Bloom’s Executive Director. “We are proud to collaborate with CN Railway and the City of Pontiac on this important project.”

The project marks the start of several initiatives for Art Dunlap Park, including the addition of new parking spaces, resurfacing of the basketball courts, updating of playground equipment, installation of new fencing, and the addition of new basketball poles, hoops, benches, and picnic tables.

"Dunlap Park isn't just a patch of green; it's the beating heart of our community. It's where childhood memories are spun, where laughter echoes, and where families find common ground”, said City Councilwoman Melanie Rutherford. “As your Councilwoman, Melanie Rutherford, I am incredibly proud of this project because I believe in creating spaces that bring us closer, foster well-being, and strengthen the bonds that make our community truly special."